Marek is a pioneer and enthusiast who believes that the old production farm, where cows, sheep, pigs, chickens and other animals were kept 15 years ago and tons of potatoes and beets were grown, has stories that need to be told and traditions that need to be preserved. This is the authentic South Estonian way of life that Marek tries to keep alive and introduce to guests.

Long, long ago—in an age before Tõlliste Manor was even a thought—Lembitu arrived in these rugged lands and named the place Tõlliste in honor of a hero from Saaremaa. A mighty ash tree sprouted by the farm’s entrance from a war club made of ash wood that had been driven into the ground. Kikka Madis, a kinsman and close friend of Lembitu, was left behind to keep an eye on the activities of the six-toed Latgalians. Together with the stately Eha—a great-great-great-granddaughter of Linda (mother of Kalevipoeg)—Madis established a farm here to provide for themselves and their sixteen children. Ever since then, people have lived and toiled on the lands of Vana-Tõlliste. And throughout that time, the words of old Madis have been heeded: “Everything that grows here, grows by the grace of the sun and the Old God. Amen!”

Vana-Tõlliste is situated amidst nature on the banks of the Väike-Emajõgi River. In spring and summer, the forests ring with birdsong, while winter brings a blanket of white and a peaceful silence. Excellent forests for picking chanterelles and blueberries are within easy cycling distance, and hiking opportunities abound. Fishing enthusiasts can cast a line, and a boat trip on the Väike-Emajõgi offers enchanting, wild scenery. The town of Valga—a city that spans two countries—is just 10 km away, while Karula National Park is 20 km away. Additionally, a former Soviet army missile base—once top-secret—lies only 4 km away and is open for military history enthusiasts to explore.